Piedmont President James Mellichamp, students, board of trustee members and representatives from the architectural and construction firms participated in a ground-breaking ceremony May 1.
The new center was long overdue, said Mellichamp. The 58,000-square-foot structure will include dining facilities, a fitness center and gym, group study rooms, a banquet and conference area, a bookstore, offices for student services and organizations and the atrium will be equipped with a rock climbing wall.
"I think it is going to have an impact on our ability to recruit students-it will be equal to-or better-than student centers at larger colleges in the Southeast," Mellichamp said. The college has recently grown, and Mellichamp thinks the new student center will aid in more successful growth.
Plus, the new building will free up space on campus for more dorms, expanding the residential capacity.
Community Bank & Trust is financing the majority of the $14 million project through a revenue bond passed through the Habersham County Development Authority and is guaranteed by the college.
The new student center mock up
Pictured from left are Judy Taylor of the Habersham County Chamber of Commerce, Piedmont Student Government officers Sam Thomas and Courtney Benson, President James Mellichamp, Board Chairman Thomas A.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2013/5/261102